Marine debris along the Caribbean coast of Panama

摘要: Abstract Nineteen sites along the Caribbean coast of Panama were examined for stranded debris. Beach transects, collections, and experiments used to examine debris abundance, composition, type, possible sources, dynamics (longevity, net changes on cleared undisturbed beaches). Most was polystyrene foam (styrofoam) other plastics (82%) related consumer or household use. Medical waste present, but rare. The most frequent country origin (43%), with countries region contributing 31%, US 16%, remaining 10% from more distant sources. abundant at near Colon than 30 km downcoast. Mark/recapture showed an average residence time beaches less 1 year. Significantly marked items disappeared transects during dry wet season. Repeated monitoring uncleared that generally accumulated slowly over time, occasionally sharp increases decreases. Experimentally regained about 50% their original load after 3 months. Site location, weather occasional large inputs (dumping, washouts, etc.) appeared be important factors controlling Panama's beaches.